The mission of the Lakeview Shepherd Senior Center is to enable older adults to remain vital, independent members of the community by offering physical activities that promote balance, strength and mobility and mental activities that enhance cognitive wellbeing and foster critical personal connections.
 
The Shepherd Center was established through a collaboration of churches, agencies, civic organizations, and local families in the Lakeview area who recognized a need to enhance the lives of the elderly and to provide them with quality services. 
 
According to the AARP Public Library Institute’s 2023 Report, The State of Social Isolation Among Older Adults, “For the increasing number of older adults facing social isolation and food insecurity, senior centers are becoming essential lifelines. These centers offer more than just meals and activities; they provide a sense of community, belonging, and purpose that can significantly improve the quality of life for our seniors, reduce healthcare costs, and delay the need for long-term care." 
 
The decision to hire at-home care or place a senior family member in a care facility is difficult and expensive. For many of our clients, the center serves as an affordable option that allows them and their families a little more time before needing to take that step. The Center not only provides a few hours of respite for caregivers, but also supports and encourages elderly who are working to maintain independence and combat social isolation.
 
As the elderly population increases, the need for places like the Lakeview Shepherd Center increases as well. And since the Covid-19 pandemic, many seniors have suffered rapid physical and mental decline. The impact of the pandemic has served as a painful but powerful reminder of the value of our services to the senior community. Through our programs, we continue to work diligently to combat the isolation and loneliness that so many seniors feel.